Measuring Gate Opening Accurately Before Ordering a Custom Gate

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To measure a gate opening for a custom order, record the width and height at three points each, using the narrowest reading, and note the ground slope, wall material and the swing direction. Accurate measurements taken before production prevent fitting problems and costly changes later.

Why accurate measurements matter

A custom gate is made to the exact size of your opening, so even a small error can mean a gate that does not close, rubs on the ground or leaves a gap that invites pets and wind. Because every piece is fabricated in our workshop, we cannot simply trim it on site the way a standard product might be adjusted.

Taking time to measure carefully at the start saves you from delays and from re-measuring after production has already begun. Think of the measurement as the foundation of the whole order.

Tools you need before you start

You do not need specialist equipment, but a few basic tools make the job much more reliable:

A steel measuring tape, preferably at least five meters long
A spirit level or a long straight board with a level
A pencil and notebook, or your phone to photograph each reading
A helper to hold the tape at the far end of the opening

Work on a dry day when the ground is firm, so the tape and the level sit steadily.

How to measure width and height correctly

Measure the width at the top, middle and bottom of the opening, from one side to the other. Do the same for the height, checking at the left, centre and right. Record all six readings, because walls are rarely perfectly square.

Use the smallest width and the smallest height as the working dimensions for the gate frame, unless we advise otherwise. Measure from the inside face of the posts or wall, not from the edge of the plaster or tiles, and remember to account for any ground tile or paving that will sit at the bottom.

Checking the ground, slope and clearance

Gates often need clearance above the ground, and a sloping driveway changes everything. Check whether the ground is level across the gate's full path, or whether it rises or falls. Measure the gap you want at the bottom, and note any obstacles such as a kerb, drain or step.

If the ground will be paved after installation, tell us the planned finish and its thickness. The gate height and bottom gap should be planned for the final level, not the current dirt surface.

Swing direction, posts and wall type

Decide whether the gate will open inward or outward, and whether it will swing on one leaf or two. The direction affects which side the hinges sit on and how much space you need to clear, including any car or pedestrian path behind it.

Note the material of the posts or wall: concrete, brick, stone or steel
Check that the posts are sound and plumb
Mark where the hinge and latch posts sit

Photographs from several angles help us understand the site before we visit.

Sending your measurements to us

Once you have your readings, send them along with clear photos of the opening, the surrounding wall and the ground. Include a rough sketch if you can, showing the dimensions and the swing direction. Mention any electrical or automation plans so we can plan the right allowances.

We review the information, confirm it on site when needed, and then prepare a drawing and written specification for your approval. Only after you approve the drawing do we move to production in the factory.

Frequently asked questions

Should I measure the gate opening or the gate itself?

Measure the opening, because a custom gate is designed to fit it. If you already have an old gate, measure the opening anyway, since the old gate may not have been sized correctly.

What if the opening is not square?

This is very common. Record several readings across the width and height, and let us know. We will plan the frame around the actual shape so it fits neatly.

Do I need to deduct anything for hinges or posts?

Do not subtract these yourself. Tell us where the posts and hinges will sit, and we will calculate the final gate dimensions during the drawing stage.

Can you measure for me?

Yes, we can arrange an on-site measurement. Sending photos and your own readings first helps us prepare and often speeds up the process.

Common mistakes to avoid

Measuring only once, or measuring the rough wall instead of the finished surface, leads to most fitting problems. Forgetting to account for future paving or the ground slope can leave the gate too high or dragging on the ground.

Our recommendation

Take each measurement three times, write them down, and send photos with your inquiry. If the ground will change after installation, give us the final level so we can plan the gap correctly.

Summary

Careful measuring of width, height, ground level and swing direction gives us what we need to build a gate that fits well the first time.

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